Boynton Beach, FL: A 2026 Relocation Deep Dive

Boynton Beach: The Data Profile (2026)

Boynton Beach presents a complex economic picture for the 2026 relocator. With a population of 81,252, it operates as a smaller, coastal city with a distinct demographic profile. The median household income sits at $67,247, which is 9.8% lower than the US median of $74,580. This income deficit is a critical variable to factor into any relocation budget. However, the educational attainment rate is slightly above the national curve, with 34.4% of residents holding a bachelor's degree or higher (US avg: 33.1%).

Statistical Target Demographic: The data suggests the ideal resident is a remote worker or a dual-income household prioritizing coastal proximity over aggressive income growth. The 9.8% income deficit is offset by a Cost of Living Index where every major category is below the national average. This is a location for value-seekers, not wealth accumulators.

Cost of Living Analysis

While general expenses are below the national average, the housing market exerts significant pressure on monthly budgets.

Disposable Income Analysis:
The math presents a challenge. A single earner making the median income of $67,247 takes home approximately $4,200/month after taxes. Subtracting the $3,190 monthly budget leaves a disposable income of roughly $1,010. This is tight, suggesting that living alone on the median income requires strict budgeting. For a family of four, a single median income is statistically unsustainable; a dual-income household ($134,494 combined) is necessary to maintain the $7,170 budget, leaving $1,230 for savings or debt repayment.

Housing Market Deep Dive

The housing market in Boynton Beach is slightly softer than the national average, but rental prices remain aggressive relative to local incomes.

Buy vs. Rent Analysis:
Renting is currently priced at a premium relative to buying. The 3BR rent of $2,950 implies a buying power equivalent to a $600,000 mortgage. However, the median home price is only $395,000. This $205,000 gap suggests a strong financial incentive to buy if you have the capital for a down payment. The rent-to-income ratio for a single renter is 44% (assuming $1,850 rent on a $5,600 monthly income), which is above the recommended 30% threshold. Buying is the data-driven choice for long-term financial stability, provided you can navigate the initial capital requirements.

Economic & Job Market Outlook

RTO (Return to Office) Impact:
Boynton Beach lacks a major corporate downtown core. Consequently, local employment is heavily reliant on the service sector, healthcare, and remote work. The 4.2% unemployment rate is marginally higher than the 4.0% national average, indicating a slightly softer local job market.

Commute & Industry:
For those working in West Palm Beach (approx. 20 miles north), the commute via I-95 can average 35-50 minutes during peak hours. The local economy is stable but not booming; the -9.8% income deficit against the US average suggests that high-paying corporate roles are scarce. Residents are likely commuting to Palm Beach or Boca Raton for higher wages.

Quality of Life Audit

Boynton Beach offers mixed health outcomes. While air quality is excellent, chronic disease rates are a concern.

Safety Analysis:
Safety is a significant data point requiring caution. Violent crime stands at 567 incidents per 100k residents, which is 49% higher than the US average of 380. Property crime is also elevated at 2,876 per 100k (US avg: 2,000), marking a 44% increase.

Air Quality & Weather:
The environmental pros are strong. The Air Quality Index (AQI) of 43 is in the "Good" range, and PM2.5 levels are 6.0 µg/m³, significantly safer than the US average. Today's weather reflects the norm: a high of 80°F and a low of 67°F with slight rain chances.

Schools:
With 34.4% of residents college-educated, the talent pool is decent, though not elite. School ratings in Palm Beach County vary by specific zip code, requiring granular research.

The Verdict

Pros:

• Housing Value: Median home prices are 6% lower than the national average, offering a buying opportunity.
• Air Quality: Exceptional environmental metrics with an AQI of 43.
• Cost of Living: Groceries, transport, and healthcare are all 5.6%, 4.4%, and 2.5% cheaper than the US average respectively.

Cons:

• Income Deficit: Earning $67,247 locally means taking a 9.8% pay cut compared to the national median.
• Crime Rates: Violent crime is 49% above the national average.
• Diabetes Rate: At 13.6%, the local rate is 25% higher than the US average, indicating potential systemic health issues.

Final Recommendation:
Boynton Beach is a Buyer's Market for Remote Workers. It is not recommended for single-income earners relying on local wages. The high crime rate requires vigilance regarding neighborhood selection. If you work remotely for a company based in a high-wage state (e.g., NY, CA) and prioritize air quality and coastal access over urban safety and career growth, Boynton Beach offers a mathematically sound value proposition in 2026.

FAQs

1. What salary is needed to live comfortably in Boynton Beach?
For a single person, a salary of $85,000 is recommended to maintain the 30% housing rule and build savings. For a family, a combined income of $135,000 is the minimum threshold for stability.

2. How does the value compare to nearby cities?
Boynton Beach is roughly 6% cheaper than the US average for housing, whereas Boca Raton to the south is typically 20-30% more expensive. It offers a "middle ground" between West Palm Beach and the luxury markets further south.

3. Are the crime statistics a dealbreaker?
Not necessarily, but they require caution. The 567/100k violent crime rate is high, but this is often hyper-localized. Gated communities and specific zip codes (e.g., 33436 vs 33473) show variance. Due diligence on specific neighborhoods is mandatory.

4. When is the best time to move or buy?
The Florida housing market generally cools in Q3 (July-September) due to heat and hurricane season. With interest rates stabilizing in 2026, Q4 offers the best negotiation leverage for buyers, potentially securing homes below the $395,000 median.